Online Doctorate in Cybersecurity
Those who choose to get an online doctorate in cybersecurity typically decide to pursue this advanced degree because of a desire to conduct research in the field. As a result, most who get an online doctorate in cybersecurity typically choose to teach cybersecurity in university settings, research cutting-edge cybersecurity theory and practice in alt-academic positions, and lead security measures for leading companies and corporations. In this article, we highlight five of the leading online cybersecurity doctorates currently available for students of all academic and professional backgrounds.
The Benefits of an Online Doctorate in Cybersecurity
At the apex of cybersecurity research and development are professionals who both theorize and put into practice the cyber defense principles on the horizon. By getting an online doctorate in cybersecurity, you will join industry-established leaders who strive to analyze real and hypothetical hacks in order to research the best possible protection measures. Doctors of cybersecurity, to this end, must conduct substantial independent research in the field.
While it’s safe to assume some of the leadership advantages that come with getting an online doctorate in cybersecurity, others are potentially harder to detect. These benefits include:
- Academic appointment opportunities: For those aiming to teach or research at the university level or in a collegiate setting, a doctorate will be necessary. Some of the leading universities and colleges around the United States have realized the importance of cybersecurity as a discipline, and as a result, they have begun investing in departments dedicated to advancing the field of study. In order to join these ranks and contribute to a rapidly expanding discipline, candidates must, for the most part, have completed a doctorate in cybersecurity.
- Private industry leadership placements: While an online Master’s in the field can certainly be enough to secure many leadership positions in private and public sectors, employers will often choose candidates who are able to demonstrate an advanced degree. With an online doctorate in cybersecurity, you will be able to prove to potential employers that you are committed to innovating in cybersecurity through independent research.
- Specialized knowledge development: One of the main drivers for getting an online doctorate in cybersecurity is the research component. As you dive into a hyper-focused subject that will ultimately become the dissertation you develop, you will develop both a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of a branch of cybersecurity. This advanced knowledge base will be appealing for future employers and for the field at large.
The Best Online Cybersecurity Doctoral Degrees
Choosing which online doctorate in cybersecurity is a difficult and at times overwhelming process. The following is a list of the five leading online cybersecurity doctoral programs.
Marymount University — Cybersecurity D.Sc.
Marymount University offers an immersive and interactive online Doctor of Science degree in Cybersecurity. The program, which offers courses in online, in-person, and hybrid formats accommodates students of all schedules and learning preferences. With a physical campus in Arlington, Virginia, which is located just outside of the Washington D.C. area, Marymount’s online Doctorate in Cybersecurity offers students unique access to engaged and experienced faculty who have practiced or currently work with federal agencies. These include the Department of Defense, the National Security Agency, the Central Intelligence Agency, and the National Science Foundation.
Importantly, the program centers on preparing leaders to lead, teach, manage, and create policy in cybersecurity contexts. Moreover, the program is designated as a National Center for Academic Excellence for Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency. This designation marks Marymount University as one of the few leading higher education institutions prepared to facilitate advanced cybersecurity degrees by the United States government.
The online Cybersecurity Doctorate can be completed over 72 credits for those entering with a bachelor’s degree and 36 credits for students entering with a Master’s. Culminating with extensive time dedicated to independent research, the program finishes with students defending their dissertation.
Northcentral University — Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management
The online Ph.D. in Technology Management from Northcentral University, which is based in San Diego, California, gives students the opportunity to choose a concentration in Cybersecurity. Through this unique specialization, students are able to learn how to develop innovative solutions to data breaches, leaks, or hacks while also gaining the skills to communicate cybersecurity concepts to non-technical audiences.
The 60-credit program can be completed in approximately 39 months. Over the 20 courses that make up the doctorate, students will learn how to lead teams in cybersecurity measures according to industry-leadin best practices. Uniquely, the program features a new semester start date every Monday, meaning students can enter the program, begin their academic journey, and start completing the degree whenever they choose after enrolling.
Purdue University Polytechnic Institute — Doctor of Technology
Purdue University’s 100% online Doctor of Technology is designed for students who want to develop real-world skills and the theoretical knowledge base to push cybersecurity practice to the next level. In the asynchronous format, students will be able to access academic resources and complete coursework on a schedule that fits their professional and personal schedules. The 90-credit program is structured to be completed between three and seven years.
While the Doctor of Technology gives students an advanced understanding of technological innovation more broadly, the Leadership of Cybersecurity and Cyber Forensics core course will prepare students to collect evidence, oversee cyber investigations, and build effective security frameworks. Importantly, the course will also prepare students to build security policies and protocols to respond effectively to data hacks, breaches, and leaks.
Dakota State University — Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems
The Ph.D. in Information Systems from Dakota State University can be completed in a number of capacities. From in-person and synchronous to online and asynchronous, the versatile degree aims to accommodate students of all schedules and learning types. The degree features three specializations: healthcare, analytics, and cybersecurity. Through this interdisciplinary approach, students gain an advanced understanding of information systems and how best to protect them.
Recognized as a Center of Excellence by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, the online Ph.D. maintains a dedication to training tomorrow’s cybersecurity leaders. The 72-credit program is split among core coursework, concentration coursework, research methodology coursework, seminars, and dissertation creation. Students can progress through these requirements at a pace and structure they find comfortable.
University of the Cumberlands — Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology
The online Ph.D. in Information Technology is designed for students aiming to gain the skill set and knowledge base necessary for a career in teaching and researching cybersecurity advancements in a university environment. The fully online program is structured to help working professionals return to school to get a Ph.D. that will advance their career.
While the degree path is general enough to accommodate all students with an interest in information technology, the University of Cumberlands has a defined curriculum that stresses the importance and value of cybersecurity. The program’s commitment to preparing cybersecurity professionals has been recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, both of which have identified the program as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. The 60-credit program is split among core coursework, specialization coursework, and dissertation writing.
Careers for Graduates with a Doctorate in Cybersecurity
After completing a doctorate in a cybersecurity field, graduates can expect to move into leadership positions across industries. From academic research to private, commercially based management, cybersecurity professionals with a doctorate are immediately considered for some of the leading positions in the industry. Some positions that graduates can expect to pursue include: